What’s on in Tokyo
Sumida River Fireworks Festival
27 July 2024
Sumida River
Every summer, Japan prepares for its numerous fireworks festivals. The biggest is the display over the Sumida River, when spectacular multicoloured layers blossom into the Tokyo ni…
Sumida River Fireworks Festival
27 July 2024
Sumida River
Every summer, Japan prepares for its numerous fireworks festivals. The biggest is the display over the Sumida River, when spectacular multicoloured layers blossom into the Tokyo night sky to awe the millions of spectators gathered along the banks or in boats. The highlight is a dazzling competition between highly acclaimed fireworks manufacturers, making the display all the more exciting because the rivalry is fierce. One of the best ways to experience the event is to go cruising on the river and enjoy the display from the water, before partying into the early hours.
Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival
March to April annually
Various
Heralding the beginning of spring, cherry trees burst into a riot of pink and white blossoms all over Japan. The cherry blossom, or sakura, is the country's national flower and a s…
Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival
March to April annually
Various
Heralding the beginning of spring, cherry trees burst into a riot of pink and white blossoms all over Japan. The cherry blossom, or sakura, is the country's national flower and a symbol of the country. For many years, the Japanese have celebrated the cherry blossom annually. Depending on the local conditions, it usually starts in Okinawa in January, reaching Kyoto and Tokyo in late March to early April, and Hokkaido in late May. The festival is celebrated with hanami (flower viewing) parties under the trees and picnics, drinking, singing and dancing. Street stalls are set up and musicians serenade the merry picnickers, many of whom are decked out in outrageous costumes and masks.
Sanja Festival
17 May 2024
Asakusa Shrine area
Sanja Matsuri is the biggest of Tokyo's three great festivals, along with the Kanda and Sanno. The annual celebrations honour the three resident deities of the Asakusa Shrine, whos…
Sanja Festival
17 May 2024
Asakusa Shrine area
Sanja Matsuri is the biggest of Tokyo's three great festivals, along with the Kanda and Sanno. The annual celebrations honour the three resident deities of the Asakusa Shrine, whose shrines are paraded in elaborate palanquins called mikoshi. Carried by dozens of men in traditional garb, they're surrounded by chanting worshippers. Some 100 other mikoshi are also carried, and are intended to bring blessings to the area's inhabitants. About two million people visit Asakusa to pay tribute and celebrate over the three days of the festival. The festivities begin with the Friday afternoon Daigyoretsu Parade.
Japanese F1 Grand Prix
7 April 2024
Suzuka Circuit
The Japanese Grand Prix usually falls towards the end of the Formula One season and has over the years provided much excitement, crowning 13 title champions. The Suzuka track has f…
Japanese F1 Grand Prix
7 April 2024
Suzuka Circuit
The Japanese Grand Prix usually falls towards the end of the Formula One season and has over the years provided much excitement, crowning 13 title champions. The Suzuka track has fast-gained a reputation as one of the most challenging on the circuit. The event is very well-supported by locals and foreigners alike, with many F1 fans travelling from around the world to attend. If a World Champion is crowned, the ceremony adds extra excitement and there are raucous afterparties to enjoy.
Website www.formula1.com
Tokyo International Film Festival
1 May — 31 May 2024
Roppongi Hills
Each year, the Tokyo International Film Festival exclusively screens new and exciting films in cinemas around Roppongi Hills. Film buffs enjoy world premieres by top local and inte…
Tokyo International Film Festival
1 May — 31 May 2024
Roppongi Hills
Each year, the Tokyo International Film Festival exclusively screens new and exciting films in cinemas around Roppongi Hills. Film buffs enjoy world premieres by top local and international filmmakers, as well as vote for a favourite film in the Audience Choice category. It's viewed as one of Asia's most famous and competitive film festivals and accredited by the FIAPF, the International Federation of Film Producers. The Tokyo Sakura Grand Prix remains the most coveted award, handed out to the winner of the best film. The festival has conventional screenings, fun open-air cinema, screenings with voiceovers and celebrity appearances, as well as lectures, seminars and workshops.
Website www.tiff-jp.net